By building a virtual computing environment for it inside of a single system, virtualization is a process for performing functionality simulation. It enables multiple users to utilize the physical resources to their fullest extent. Because it provides operational flexibility, virtualization is becoming more and more popular among businesses. Its most common benefits include:
Different Types of Virtualization
7 virtualization types
There are many types of virtualization in business. Here are the seven main types to consider:
1. Application virtualization
Applications that are virtualized appear to function as though they are on a user’s device’s hard drive, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. However, the applications are running on a remote server. Despite being on each device and using its CPU and RAM, applications have no control over them. Businesses may be able to grant access to an application to their staff while limiting certain activities within the application or protecting the privacy of protected information
2. Desktop virtualization
Desktop virtualization enables the desktop operating system to be stored and run on a physical server as opposed to the computer’s hard drive, similar to application virtualization. Its sometimes referred to as virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). The desktop application is accessible to users from anywhere and on any device. These systems are employed by many businesses to enable staff members to access private work files stored on business servers from their home computers.
3. Server virtualization
Using this method of virtualization, the user divides the main server into several virtual servers, each of which runs a different operating system. The physical server’s resources, including the CPU, memory, storage, and networking, are shared by the divided virtual servers. To better prevent server overloads or underloads, server virtualization may allow IT teams to balance the computational needs of each of their virtual servers. Because it can conceal the location of host servers and add network protection services, this type of virtualization can also assist in enhancing server security.
4. Administrative virtualization
Although less well known, administrative virtualization is frequently used to grant different users of a system access to data and permissions. Usually, it cooperates with the application’s or server’s user policy. The read-only permission, which forbids users from altering documents they view, is one type of permission that is frequently assigned. On some documents, some employees might only have the ability to read while others might have complete editing rights.
5. Network virtualization
Through the process of network virtualization, all network hardware and software elements are combined into a single software entity that runs on a host server. Additionally, it entails channelizing bandwidth and allocating it to various servers and gadgets. This enables companies to provide their staff with internet access without the need for hardware. Virtual networks are also helpful for assigning IP addresses and masking data.
6. Hardware virtualization
A virtual machine manager (VM) used in hardware virtualization is called a hypervisor. It creates virtualized versions of the operating systems and computers, then combines them into a sizable physical server. Businesses may use less hardware as a result because virtual versions utilize resources more effectively. Additionally, it enables users to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on the same computer.
7. Storage virtualization
With storage virtualization, data is kept on a virtual server rather than a regular hard drive. Due to its ease of duplication and transfer to any location, storage virtualization can be used by businesses to organize data or create disaster recovery plans. A cloud drive is an example of storage virtualization.
What is virtualization?
To perform a particular function, a virtual version of an entity is created through the process of virtualization. A virtual desktop, for instance, is a type of virtualization where several operating systems are run on a single computer, at least one of which is running as an application inside another operating system. In order for the virtual session to store and recall data, the virtual desktop may connect to a physical hard drive or server.
What types of virtualization can companies use?
Any type of virtualization can be used by businesses as long as those business processes use the components of that type of virtualization. For instance, a financial institution might use virtualization to increase the security of the stock trading software that its employees use. They could also incorporate desktop virtualization to enable staff members to access client portfolios from their home computers. An alternative is for a farmer to use storage virtualization to keep track of his crops’ watering requirements and harvesting times. Businesses use virtualization in a variety of creative ways to achieve their objectives.
Benefits of virtualization
Here is a list of potential benefits of virtualization:
Increases efficiency
By enabling employees to access data, applications, operating systems, storage, networks, and servers from a variety of remote devices, including their personal computers or smartphones, virtualization may help increase productivity. For instance, staff members may log into a virtual server on their personal computer to continue working if the power in an office building is out but the company’s servers are in another building. Additionally, if a worker is already at home and forgets to finish a crucial task, they can log in to the virtual desktop and finish it there.
Decreases costs
By assisting in the elimination of pricey IT repairs or hardware acquisition expenses, it could reduce costs. For instance, the risk of mechanical hard drive failures is eliminated if all of a company’s hard drives are virtual. Additionally, it eliminates the need to spend money on hard drives for their staff.
Maintains privacy and security
When remote servers and networks conceal IP addresses and block access to sensitive data, privacy and security may be simpler to maintain. For instance, if a hacker gains access to a company that hides its IP address using a remote network in Idaho, they might only have limited access to the host network. They might not be able to see the location or any data workers send and receive over the network. Consumers and businesses may feel more secure knowing that their personal and professional information is protected thanks to this additional layer of security.
Promotes innovation
Numerous forward-thinking businesses are among the first to incorporate virtual technologies as they advance into their operational workflows. They may gain competitive advantages from this, for example through improved supply chain management. Utilizing such technology encourages innovation as a norm across many industries.
FAQ
What are the 4 general types of virtualization?
- Desktop Virtualization.
- Application Virtualization.
- Server Virtualization.
- Network Virtualization.
- Storage Virtualization.
What is virtualization and its types?
- Network virtualization. Through network virtualization, bandwidth is divided into separate channels using the network’s available resources.
- Storage virtualization. …
- Desktop virtualization. …
- Application virtualization.
